CLUB NEWS » STEWART/HYDER
Brimming with opportunity
This club is enjoying another year of plentiful powder and fantastic scenery
by KIRSTEN ARMLEDER
 |
SIMPLY AMAZING: Colin Burke enjoyed catwalking at Granduc Mine Site.
—Jim Bunn photo |
Situated on opposite sides of the Canadian and American border are Stewart, B.C., and Hyder, Alaska. The people who live in these border towns have access to some of the most amazing sledding North America has to offer.
"Our area consists of boondocking treed areas and lots of above-treeline riding, as well as riding on huge glaciers," said Colin Burke, president of the Bordertown Snowbombers club.
The area is so massive that it's hard for Burke to pin down the most popular riding spots. However, this means sledders have no problem finding fresh powder—even in late spring.
"Our snow conditions are usually deep untracked powder until May," said Burke. "Last year's season started in mid-November and ended in mid-August. This year, we started riding in mid-October."
According to him, the powder is drier than usual but there is a lot of snow in the mountains.
The club, which was formed in 1998 by a group of local riders, currently has 20 members. They range from 14-year-olds to seniors. Last year, club members purchased a snow groomer and this season, they bought a groomer drag from the Klondike Snowmobile Association. This year, Burke said they hope to launch a trail grooming program. Club members also maintain one of two cabins that are in the area.
The scenery is another feature snowmobilers enjoy in Stewart and Hyder. Jagged peaks and smooth, glacier-capped mountains create the perfect setting for unbelievable adventures.
"We have your favourite type of terrain," said Burke. "Both expert and beginner riders can easily tour our area."
For more information, go to www.bordertownsnowbombers.com.
|
